Durnin & Womersley Method
Comprehensive analysis of the Durnin & Womersley skinfold method, featuring age-specific equations and extensive validation across different populations. Explore its unique approach to accounting for age-related changes in body composition.
Historical Development
Original Research (1974)
Groundbreaking study addressing age-related variations in body composition:
- 481 subjects studied (272 males, 209 females)
- Age range: 16-72 years
- First method to account for age differences
- Validated against hydrostatic weighing
Method Evolution
Development and refinement over time:
- 1974: Original equations published
- 1980s: Population-specific validations
- 1990s: Cross-validation studies
- 2000s: DEXA comparison studies
Method Details
Measurement Protocol
Measurement Sites
- Biceps
- Triceps
- Subscapular
- Suprailiac
Age Categories
- 17-19 years
- 20-29 years
- 30-39 years
- 40-49 years
- 50+ years
Statistical Validation
Original Validation
- Correlation with HW: r = 0.90
- SEE: ±3.5-5% body fat
- Test-retest reliability: r = 0.97
- Age-specific accuracy verified
Modern Validation
- DEXA comparisons
- Multiple population studies
- Ethnic group validations
- Athletic population studies
Age-Specific Considerations
Age-Related Changes
- Fat distribution patterns
- Skin elasticity variations
- Muscle mass changes
- Hydration status differences
Equation Adjustments
- Age-specific constants
- Gender-specific factors
- Body density calculations
- Fat percentage conversion
Clinical Applications
Research Applications
- Aging studies
- Longitudinal monitoring
- Population research
- Clinical trials
Practical Uses
- Geriatric assessment
- Health screening
- Nutritional monitoring
- Fitness evaluation
References
- Durnin, J.V.G.A., & Womersley, J. (1974). “Body fat assessed from total body density and its estimation from skinfold thickness: measurements on 481 men and women aged from 16 to 72 years.” British Journal of Nutrition, 32(1), 77-97.
- Eston, R.G., & Reilly, T. (2009). “Kinanthropometry and Exercise Physiology Laboratory Manual: Tests, Procedures and Data.” Routledge, 3rd Edition.
- Martin, A.D., et al. (1985). “The use of body mass index for measurement of body fatness in men and women: age specific prediction formulas.” International Journal of Obesity, 9(2), 147-153.
- Reilly, J.J., et al. (1995). “Determination of body composition from skinfold thickness: a validation study.” Archives of Disease in Childhood, 73(4), 305-310.